Akali Dal councillor Harjinder Singh Bahman was shot dead on Sunday by unidentified bike-borne assailants, Punjab Police said. The incident occurred while Bahman was travelling, when three to four men on a motorcycle approached and opened fire on him.
According to Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) Harpal Singh Randhawa, Bahman sustained serious injuries and succumbed while being taken to the hospital.
“While Harjinder Singh was on his way, a motorcycle carrying three to four individuals approached him and opened fire. He succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital,” Randhawa said.
Bahman’s brother and brother-in-law have alleged that the attackers were the same individuals who had previously opened fire at Bahman’s residence and had issued him threats. “According to his family, the suspects had earlier targeted him and had also threatened him,” added Randhawa.
So far, the identity of the attackers remains unknown. Police have launched an investigation and are reviewing CCTV footage in the area to track the assailants.
The killing has sparked concern over political and personal security in the region, and opposition parties are likely to raise questions over the law and order situation in Punjab.